The invention relates to compounds having the formula (I), wherein X is -(CH2)s- or -(CH2)s-O-; B is C8-24 alkyl-, (a), (b), or (c); Y and Z are each H or C1-12 alkyl; m is an integer having a value of 1 to 100; n is an integer having a value of 2 to 50; p is an integer having a value of O or 1; s is an integer having a value of 1 or 2; R' is H or CH3 and A is H or (d), wherein R'' is hydrogen or methyl and r is an integer having a value of from 1 to 100. The invention also relates to the process for the preparation of said compounds, as well as the process of using them as a surfactant or complexing agent and compositions therefor.